The Capri Hotel Ojai

Aug 8

Written By

It was month 10 of the pandemic and I was starting to feel stir crazy. I needed to get out of the house and take a long drive with the top down. Fresh air and a new scene was the only remedy that could ameliorate how I was feeling. I called up Martine and suggested we head to Ojai for a few days because I wanted to check out a new hotel an old acquaintance of mine had opened. Plus, there was a tennis pro I wanted to hit with in Ojai who I was convinced could elevate my game. We both took the proper Covid tests, quarantined, and were on our way.

Shelter Social Club is my favorite motelier – maybe they are the only motelier? The brain behind the operation is Kenny Oshean and her new property is called The Capri Hotel. Although I haven’t seen Kenny in many years it’s always exciting to witness what she’s working on. She is someone whose work I respect tremendously. The woman has superb taste. I have stayed at SSC’s other properties over the years. You might remember my posts about the Alamo Motel and The Ojai Rancho Inn. Naturally, I wanted to check out the newest property especially after seeing photos of its flawless lobby. Kenny knows design through and through and I was excited to see what she created at this property.

My favorite elements at The Capri were the aforementioned lobby and the pool which overlooked the gorgeous Ojai canyon. The mix of brutalist concrete alongside an abundance of foliage looked stylish and cool. The rooms were minimal with neutral tones and cool lighting accents. I’d advise choosing a room with a soaking tub and balcony for the optimum experience. The bathroom toiletries smelled great and waking up in the shower with a gorgeous shampoo was ideal. With all my travel experience, I would prefer to have slippers and a robe in my room but that’s not this kind of place, so keep that in mind. The room’s amenities are minimal offering refrigerators, 42" flat screens with cable television, and air-conditioning, so pack some snacks and water if you need to. The mattress in my room was far too firm for my liking but the silence at the motel did make for some nice rest. At home, I sleep on a Hypnos, which has made me very critical of all beds that are not my own and has changed how I approach sleep.

With the few options in Ojai lodging, The Capri makes for a nice stay for anyone seeking modern design. Do not forget to browse their well-curated gift shop, Eskina Space, before you check out. That is where I stumbled upon SIGIL fragrances and have been a fan since. Also in the shop are natural deodorants, ceramics, and local crafts. The Capri offers fine selection of items for sale whether you’re a guest or not.

Why Book: The Capri Hotel is one of the few design-forward lodging options in Ojai. There’s a pool and jacuzzi in addition to a well-curated gift shop in the über cool lobby. It’s conveniently located within walking distance of downtown Ojai. The property has a poolside view of the canyon.

The Backstory: The Capri is a 30 room renovated mid-century modern property built in 1963. It’s owned by Shelter Social Club, the motelier behind Ojai Rancho Inn, Alamo Hotel, and Sama Sama Kitchen. Manola Studio was at the helm of the design and architecture of the property.

The Rooms: Minimal and modern is the decor. Lamps by Eny Lee Parker are a nice touch. Sparse amenities.

Food & Drink: Little Sama, also owned by the hotel, is down the street and serving up delicious Southeast Asian-inspired cuisine. Bonus is they deliver to the hotel. Another favorite of mine is Roti which describes itself as a Lebanese French Picnic. The food is fresh and full of flavor. I eat there every time I’m in Ojai.

The Neighborhood/Area: Located on the main street in Ojai, Ojai Avenue, the hotel is easy to find. Here you’re centrally located to hiking destinations, coffee shops, restaurants, and almost everything you need while in Ojai. The hotel offers bikes which make for a lovely ride into town. The vibe is very relaxed. Surrounded by nature, the area is ripe for a tranquil vacation.

Accessibility: ADA rooms available

Price: $299 for a Standard King